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Commission hears gaps in patrol‑specials training and insurance compliance
Summary
Commissioners received an update on patrol‑specials: training completed to date, low attendance at some mandated classes, missing $1 million liability and workers' compensation records for several patrol‑special units, and a delayed independent study expected in early 2010.
The Police Commission on Sept. 16 heard a status update on patrol‑specials — private security officers who contract with property owners — and the department described training, insurance and oversight gaps.
Commander Tong reported the timeline for an independent study of patrol‑specials was extended; interviews will resume in October with a draft due in December and a final report in early 2010. In the meantime, the commission adopted interim rules requiring proof of insurance, changes to uniforms to avoid misidentification, turnover of client lists and continued department training.
Lieutenant Lum and Commander Tong gave attendance figures for mandated training: "We had 18 at the CPR class. We had 16 at the first aid, and forced options, we had 15," Tong said, describing roughly half participation. Officials said a defensive tactics class had been rescheduled several times because minimum‑attendance requirements were not met.
The department reported that while some patrol‑specials have provided proof of liability insurance, several do not have the $1 million liability coverage the commission requested. The department also flagged the absence of workers' compensation documentation for many patrol‑special operators; some owners claim they "do not employ" assistants, creating a legal and enforcement question that the legal division will review.
Commissioners asked that the department press for compliance and recommended legal follow‑through where records remain missing. The commission also asked staff to track training attendance and insurance status and to report back as the independent study proceeds.
The commission did not take a formal vote to change policy at the meeting beyond scheduling and oversight directions; staff will continue to enforce interim rules and prepare the study.
